I've been an addict..it started with opiates and never In my life did I think using herion could or would be something I would do. however it became my all consuming addiction.. I went to rehab and it ended up being a bunch of addicts talking about Using, which made you want to use more.. I also felt looking at these counslers, who you could tell never a day in their life did they experience the dread,hopelessness and the exent an addict will do to get what they need... I've been clean for 2 years now and still see a counsler but I know they read these text books but never BEEN through it.. and that to me is disheartening.. Why would a woman who sold her body to feel normal have anything in common with a person who read about it but never felt that absolute dispare.. I want honestly to become a counsler because I never went as far as selling myself but I could understand.. I really want to become one because I GET it. I get what it feels like your heart fighting your mind.. I'm asking, please, If anyone could understand why I feel why I think I could help.. I will take any advice.. I want to help people and let them know I get it.. please give me some feedback..

Absolutely get it! I understand fully too the frustration of going to a counsiler that has their knowledge based on school and textbook. It's just not the same as people that have BEEN THROUGH IT. About a year or two clean i wanted to do same..then got frustrated with myself feeling like even though I'm clean and sober..what have i learned..i have a lot more to. But that's me and in recovery we are always learning i suppose. Ironic you posted this as i was just on a phone with a friend that's gone to school for many things. She has worked at a drug reab. (though surrounded by addicts her whole life she never was herself) so she does have outside experience..but she will say things like 'my boyfriend relapsed..he feels he can reward himself when he finishes a semester...i don't get it..i reward myself too, I'll get myself a piece of chocolate cake..' s***..of COURSE you don't get it.. Though tonight was topic of her taking child psychology classes and that's why she knows what's best for her neice over my opinion as a mother...ugh all frustrating. Anyway got off topic a bit. Yes you CAN do this..I'm sure it will make life even more fulfilling. Don't know where in world you are..but look online I'm sure you can find lots of information...good luck 😊

KaC, I'm the mother of an addict and I wish to God you would do this! People like you are what's needed out there to help. I understand what your saying about being taught by reading books. When you have had hands on experience. I don't know what country your in but I would go to a career center. Ask where to start. I'm thinking you would have to take a class of some sort. But there are grants you can apply for. You can do this you've just got to start the ball rolling! Meantime become a sponsor for someone and help one person at a time. Great idea!! Go for it! Mary.

Joey

Posted: November 26, 2017, 12:14 PM

Why not go see a psychologist who specializes in addiction? In my experience, from rehab and being in therapy after, most addiction specialists are in recovery themselves.

I am surprised that you ended up seeing non-addicts. I never specifically sought out addicts as therapists, but found them. Why not look for addiction specialists and ask if they themselves are addicts. Or perhaps your current therapist can refer you. If it is that important to you, then you should try to get it.